Page 44 of It Could Happen
What? No.
“Actually, I’m not.”
She rolls her eyes. “I’m not blind. And I get it. Tyler is good-looking and charismatic, so it’s kind of difficult not to fall all over him.”
What the hell? I haven’t been falling all over Tyler. If anything I’ve been trying to avoid him.
“I know Tyler is flirtatious, but I’m sure you don’t want to come between his friendship with Matt.”
It’s taking all my energy to stay calm while she’s trying very hard to manipulate me.
“I have no intentions of causing issues for Matt and Tyler—or anyone,” I say.
She stretches her arms over her head.
“I’m sure it’s not your intention. If you haven’t noticed, I’m very protective when it comes to my friends.”
I raise my eyebrows. “I figured that out.”
“So, we have an understanding? And you’ll keep your distance from Tyler? For Caroline’s sake—the last thing she’d want is any stress before the wedding.”
I purse my lips. “Leslie, you don’t have to worry because I have no plans to get in the way of you and Tyler.”
Leslie’s mouth drops open. “Wow. You’re good.”
I remove the towel and run my fingers through my hair. “What do you mean?”
She glares at me. “Caroline has been singing your praises, but you put on a good act.”
“What act?” I ask. This woman is absolutely exhausting.
She jumps up from the bed. “This has nothing to do with Tyler and me. This wedding means everything to Caroline, so I suggest you don’t cause any issues.”
Without another word she goes to the bathroom and shuts the door. I’m assuming that was a threat. And although I’m not scared of her, I do have information that will cause issues. The best thing for me to do is mind my own business from now on.
* * *
I never expected that this short weekend getaway would teach me so much. My morning on a Jet Ski has made me realize that I need to add more adventure to my life. And now, as I’m sitting in a relaxation room in a big fluffy robe waiting for my massage, I’m reminded that I don’t do enough self-care.
Following my encounter with Leslie, I quickly got dressed and escaped the cabin as fast I could. I’ve tried to make an effort with Leslie, but she’s not letting up. The best thing for me to do is avoid her when possible. Thankfully there will be enough people at the shower and the wedding so our interaction should be minimal.
We all meet up in the spa, including Rachel, who seems perfectly fine. I’m sure most of her anxiety comes when Christian is around—and with good reason.
“How is everything?” Erica asks me. “Are you enjoying yourself?”
“Very much,” I reply. “Thank you for all your efforts to make this such a wonderful trip. I’m sure it’s not easy trying to organize and coordinate activities for so many people.”
She shrugs. “It’s fine. I love doing this kind of stuff, and it’s important to Caroline that everyone has a good time.”
“You’re a good friend. I’m happy she has you.”
“I appreciate that.” She pauses. “And I’m sorry if you felt like I took your place in her life. You know how friendships evolve over time.”
My place? What’s she saying?
“I never—"
“Leslie told me you felt like you should’ve been Caroline’s maid of honor, since you’ve known her longer than the rest of us. It’s very understandable why you’d feel that way.”
